Rat-eating plant discovered in Philippines

August 17, 2009

British scientists said they have discovered a plant in the Philippines that feeds by luring and consuming rats.

Botanists Stewart McPherson and Alastair Robinson said the plant, dubbed Nepenthes attenboroughii after legendary wildlife broadcaster Sir David Attenborough, consumes whole rats by luring them into its mouth and dissolving them with acid-like enzymes.

The plant produces spectacular traps which catch not only insects, but also rodents, McPherson told The Sun in an exclusive interview. It is remarkable that it remained undiscovered until the 21st century.

McPherson and Robinson said their team found the plant on Mount Victoria after hearing accounts of the shrub’s eating habits from missionaries.

My team and I named it in honor of Sir David whose work has inspired generations toward a better understanding of the beauty and diversity of the natural world, McPherson said.